Alentejo

The Alentejo is the heartland of Portugal. This extensive region is largely rural and sparsely populated with a wild rugged coastline that stretches for 100km with dozens of fabulous beaches; some exposed, some sheltered and many hidden by cliffs. Its rural interior is speckled with historic towns of great beauty and interest, nestled amongst the vast open plains dotted with cork oaks and olive trees.

The city of Evora is vibrant and lively with numerous sites of historical interest such as the Roman Temple of Diana, the Cathedral of Evora and the Chapel of Bones. The cobbled streets and grand plazas are lined with trendy eateries serving gastronomic delights paired with regional wines of which this region produces in abundance. Nearby are the marble towns of Estremoz, Borba and Vila Viçosa with its sumptuous palace and early 16th Century convent. Towards the boarder with Spain lie the fortified walled villages of Marvão, Monsaraz and Elvas all strategically built on top of hills with magnificent views over the countryside. The white washed houses and cobbled streets within the walls of these villages seem to be suspended in time allowing for you to immerse yourself in its rich history and historical treasures.

The Vincentina coast is perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed beach vibe. Here the well-preserved beaches are wild and dramatic, tucked into prehistoric cliff faces beaten back by the restless Atlantic Ocean. The fashionable beach village of Comporta lies on the Sado Estuary which is frequented by a large pod of bottlenose river dolphins and as you travel further south the pace of life slows down allowing you to soak up the culture and drink in the beauty of the surrounding traditional coastal villages of Porto Covo, Vila Nova de Milfontes and Zambujeira do Mar. There are numerous activities that cater to all interests from surfing on the coast to water sports on the many lakes and reservoirs inland. There are also popular walking trails and cycling routes along the Vincentina coast.

Depending on where you are travelling to in the Alentejo you might be best suited to fly to either Lisbon or Faro to reach your final destination. There are a number of flight connections from the UK to either of these airports it's really a case of finding an airline that suits your needs best wherever you may be.

Car Hire:

We have a longstanding relationship with both Avis & Europcar and are able to offer quotes with 0 excess and no additional charges for one way drop offs, to suit your travel plans.

Many villages and towns in the Alentejo have their own traditional festas (festivals) or pilgrimages which celebrate local history, food and culture.

June

Feira de São João -  Évora

One of the oldest fairs in Portugal, this festival which lasts for several days, combines religious processions in honor of Saint John with vibrant street parades, workshops, food stalls, concerts, fairground rides and local craft stalls.

Festas de São Pedro - Montemor-o-Novo

A festival celebrating Saint Peter, with parades, traditional music and dancing.  It's also an agricultural fair, showcasing local products, crafts and livestock.

July

Ruas Floridas de Rodondo - Redondo

Around 22 roads in the town of Redondo are decorated with flowers, colourful bunting and giant paper sculptures.

Festival Músicas do Mundo - Sines

One of Portugal's most popular world music festivals, held in the coastal town of Sines.  It brings together musicians from various cultures and genres, offering a unique blend of music, including traditional Portuguese fado and global rhythms.

August

Meo Sudoeste - Zambujeira do Mar

A four day music festival with an international line-up.

Feira de Agosto - Grândola

A big summer party with both national and international acts performing on the main stage alongside fairground rides, taverns selling regional products, restaurants as well as artisan stalls, workshops and demonstrations.

Check out our offers page for holidays we may be featuring associated to these events.

Weather:

The Alentejo is the hottest and driest region of Portugal. During the summer months, temperatures average around 29ºC and it is common to have heat waves lasting several days with temperatures soaring to 40ºC and above.  In contrast winters are generally cold and wet with temperatures fluctuating between 10ºC and a minimum of 2ºC.  By late spring temperatures begin to creep up and if you are travelling inland this can be a very pleasant time of the year to visit along with the months of September and October when the high temperatures begin to wane.

Currency:

Euro

Language:

Portuguese

Electricity Plug System

Electrical supply: 230V

Dialling Code:

+351

Health & Vaccinations:

Travellers do not require certificates of vaccination or immunisations to enter Portugal. If you are from an EU member state you should bring your European Health Insurance card to be entitled to free medical & hospital care. Visitors from other countries are advised to take out a medical insurance policy.

Religion:

The majority of Portuguese are Roman Catholic.

Tipping:

Tipping is not mandatory and is at the discretion of the visitor.